Much of the world is celebrating the winter holidays. While that can mean baking, hosting, traveling, shopping, or wrapping to you, here at Gap Inc. this time of year means one thing: giving. It’s a part of our commitment to Be what’s possibleand support our communities where we do business and where our employees live. This year, Gap Inc. partnered with organizations in France, Japan, Canada, the US and other countries to give the gift of volunteering all around the world.

Earlier this month, a team from Toronto, Canada continued its tradition of supporting The Scott Mission. During a Holiday Volunteer Day, the team gathered toys, cooked, and served meals. Michel Khouri, District Manager for Banana Republic, said he was able to receive through the act of giving. “To be able to help prepare and serve meals on a cold and rainy morning for more than 120 people brought tremendous joy,” he said. “It was rewarding to be able to see how my effort and time truly went a long way that day.”

In the United States, Gap Inc. volunteers in San Francisco, California jumped at the chance to Be what’s possible through several events. Employees provided gifts to families that needed a little extra support this holiday season. Others partnered with more than 100 children, ages 4 – 12, through GLIDE Family Services. Supplied with a list of items and sizes, each child was treated to a $100 shopping spree at the Old Navy Flagship Store, along with a personal shopper — a Gap Inc. volunteer. They filled their bags and left as very satisfied customers.

The following day, early risers packed thousands of grocery bags with all the makings for a holiday meal. Nearly 6,000 people lined the streets of San Francisco as Gap Inc. volunteers packed and delivered the groceries. It’s a seasonal tradition for many employees to volunteer this time of year – one that we look forward to continuing for many holidays to come.

We’re not done yet. Holidays vary by country, and we have even more events planned, because, you know, ‘tis the season.